# forgave

/fɝˈɡeɪv/ (US) · /fəɡˈeɪv/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/forgave
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

the past tense of 'forgive'. It means you stopped being angry at someone for a mistake or something bad they did.

For teachers: the past tense of 'forgive'. Refers to the act of ceasing to feel resentment or vengeance toward an offender for a perceived flaw or mistake.

## Examples

- She forgave him for forgetting her birthday.
- After a long and difficult conversation, the two friends finally forgave each other for the misunderstanding.
- Although the damage to the property was significant, the landlord eventually forgave the debt, recognising that the tenant had acted in good faith during the crisis.

## Usage notes

- The past tense of the irregular verb 'forgive'. It is transitive and typically takes a direct object representing the person or the offence.

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